The Outer Banks loop away from the mainland coast of North Carolina, and are actually a string of barrier islands, which offer a different take on Atlantic coast vacationing. A lot of history resides here, along with a traditional seaside ambiance that’s impossible not to fall in love with. You’ll still find all of the amazing southern fried seafood, nature laden parks, a memorable coastline, along with dozens of gorgeous stilted homes serving as vacation rentals. From the expensive to affordable, these are our favorites.
4 Bedroom, Luxury Semi Oceanfront
We can definitely see why HGTV was used as an adjective to describe this rental. Coastal colors, rustic wood accents, and overall airy ambiance truly make it magazine-worthy. And that sunroom, wow. Like our other previously mentioned listings, this location has a great deck. A pool is included in your stay, and it’s just a short walk away, while the beach is seconds away.
Tiny House on Semi-Oceanfront Lot
Come stay oceanfront in the beautiful Outer Banks. This itsy-bitsy home is adorable yet functional on the inside and features multi-level deck space on the exterior. So you know you’ll always have a perfect spot to take in the ocean air. This home is a bit unusual, being much smaller than other rentals, and it’s quite endearing.
Stay at OBX Life II Ocean
Every room features another electric and exciting color – – this definitely makes it feel like a vacation home. With a nice kitchen, multiple places to sleep, and an impressive backyard swimming pool, this home is ready to welcome your beach craving family. The sand and water are within view from the deck, and the main pier in the area is a short distance away. Local seafood restaurants are abundant, rounding out the perfect summer vacation.
OBX Tree House
The circular shape of this Airbnb is both reminiscent of a gazebo and a yurt. However, it’s a funky treehouse-style beach house, with great deck space and conveniences like a washer and dryer on the floor level. While the interior is a bit “back in time“, we have to say it seems like a pretty cozy place to spend a beach vacation.
Beautiful Home with Awesome Views
This beautiful blue vacation home is blessed with the calming sound to one side, and the beach to the other, and you can be at the water’s edge in a few minute’s walk. Inside feels like home, with fun touches like little murals to make you feel like you’re somewhere special. When not at the beach, a lot of time will likely be spent at the saltwater pool, complete with underwater seating.
Lunasea at Tarheel Shores
Stretched tall for maximum views, this home also has an elegant kitchen and overall stunning living space. In addition to an optimal location, there’s a seamless pool with outdoor speakers waiting out back. For rainy days, enjoy the game room complete with a pool table, shuffleboard, and even a wet bar. The outdoor deck spaces are crisp, clean, and the ultimate place to enjoy morning coffee.
Aloha Too - 3rd House from Ocean
The interior kind of reminds us of a slightly funky surfers shack, with multicolored barn wood, artsy light fixtures and bright wood finishes. However, the overall look is quite polished and refined, making this place the perfect blend between beach hangout and swanky vacation. The best part? You can get to the waves in less than a minute.
8 Bedroom, Heated Pool & Waterfront
The southern oceanside charm is certainly palpable in this brightly hued vacation rental. Floor to ceiling windows brings the outside views into the interior design. Relax in the swimming pool, even when it might be a little chilly outside because it is heated! Bonus, there is also a hot tub, and lots of outdoor deck space to lounge upon. The hosts go the extra mile by having kayaks and other fun toys on hand.
Penthouse Condo
With breathtaking knotted wood floors and palm tree accidents everywhere, guests will be immersed in a refined island environment when staying at this penthouse. We love how airy the kitchen and living space both feel, and this is perfect for family gatherings. The cedar shake siding really adds an east coast feel, as do the touches on the deck such as the classic hammock swaying in the wind.
Circa 1953 Beach Cottage
The pretty blue shade of the precious cottage just pops the moment you pull up. So much of the 1950s charm, the era in which this abode was built, is ever-present. However, everything feels new and clean. The sea-themed aesthetics are a nod to mermaids and other mesmerizing sea creatures and touches like the pebble backsplash in the bathroom just melt with Outer Banks life.
